Melinda French Gates, the Co-Chair of the Bill and Melinda French Gates Foundation, called on Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in Delhi on December 5, 2022 and congratulated him for India’s successful Covid-19 vaccination drive and praised the colossal efforts undertaken by the Narendra Modi-led Government of India in managing the pandemic.
She also commended the numerous initiatives of the Union Health Ministry’s recent programs and policies which have served to enhance growth and provide opportunities for women and girls more than ever before.
According to an official statement, both discussed in detail the potential and new opportunities for India’s ambitious health sector reforms, with particular emphasis on strengthening the health infrastructure and digital health mission under the aegis of Ayushman Bharat. They also discussed opportunities to leverage Indian vaccine manufacturing and digital goods for global public health, specifically in light of India’s charge of the G20 Presidency.
“It is amazing how India covered more than 90 % of its population through vaccination in such a short time,” she said.
“India has been a champion in pioneering innovations to fight the pandemic and minimize its impact on the most vulnerable groups. The country has made rapid strides in improving health outcomes of millions of citizens, particularly in ensuring consistent progress on maternal and child health indicators, she added.
